Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 85 minutes
Introduction
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that often flourishes in home gardens. But what to do when you have too many? Making zucchini bread is a fantastic way to utilize this abundant vegetable, offering a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Here’s how to make the best out of your garden’s bounty.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated fresh zucchini
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1 cup walnuts or chocolate chips
Tools Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Grater
- Oven
Instructions
Preparing the Zucchini:
- Wash and Grate: Wash your garden-fresh zucchini under cold water, then grate it using a coarse grater.
- Drain Moisture: Place the grated zucchini in a strainer and gently press to remove excess moisture.
Making the Bread:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine: Add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
- Add Zucchini: Fold in the grated zucchini. If using walnuts or chocolate chips, add them here.
- Pour and Smooth: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Cooling and Storage:
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Zucchini bread is a wonderful way to enjoy your garden’s zucchini harvest. It’s not only delicious but also versatile; feel free to add in nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste. Happy gardening and baking!